This year, traveling may pose several obstacles. Travel restrictions, quarantine policies, airline regulations, mandatory mask-wearing, and the need for social distancing raise concerns and discomfort for many people. Commuting by airplane, residing in hotels, and utilizing crowded public transportation while exploring major cities could prove daunting.
Sadly, we’ve had to cancel all of our usual travel plans for the year, including our family summer vacation and upcoming cruise itineraries. As Hawaii residents, we’re hesitant to take long haul flights and travel to any part of the world, including Italy where our daughter resides. This year we’ll be confined to our home, and it’s uncertain when we’ll be able to travel again given the current circumstances with the novel coronavirus. Until a cure or vaccine is developed, we’ll be prioritizing our health and safety by staying put.
Even when we’re staying in, our travel dreams don’t have to be put on hold. By taking advantage of virtual touring, we can cross destinations off our bucket list or relive our favorite city memories without leaving the comfort and safety of our own family room.
Explore these six cities from the comfort of your home with these virtual tours. Whether it’s a nostalgic visit or an aspirational addition to your future travel plans, indulge in these immersive experiences. Have fun!
Paris, commonly known as “The City of Lights,” evokes images of romance, history, art, fashion, and cuisine. Its charm is unparalleled in the Spring, when the city is abloom with sights, sounds, and smells that are nothing short of magical. Whether you’re exploring the Gothic Cathedral of Notre Dame, admiring the magnificent artworks within the Louvre or D’Orsay museums, perusing the shops along the elegant Champs Elysee, or enjoying a cup of coffee in one of the quaint cafes lining the Rive Gauche, Paris caters to all tastes and preferences.
London, a city of endless possibilities, offers an array of experiences for everyone to savour. From majestic palaces and exquisite gardens to rich museums and galleries, and from vibrant theaters to bustling markets and shops, this city has it all. The grandeur of Buckingham Palace and Hampton Court, the exceptional exhibits at the British Museum and the world-renowned shows at the West End, and the irresistible charm of Borough Market and Harrods all make for a delightful exploration of this captivating city.
Uncover the rich history of England by visiting Westminster Abbey, where tombs of royalty, poets, scientists and other celebrated figures rest. Take in the breathtaking views of the city from the world famous London Eye. For those who dare, stroll through the misty alleys of Whitechapel, where the gruesome deeds of Jack the Ripper once terrorized the city.
The Big Apple, also known as New York City, is truly a favorite of mine. As a native New Yorker, I may be slightly partial, but the city has an endless supply of attractions. You’ll find iconic landmarks like the Statue of Liberty, vast green spaces like Central Park and Battery Park, and unique neighborhoods like Greenwich Village and Tribeca. Furthermore, the city boasts world-renowned museums like the MOMA and the Guggenheim, as well as the bustling Times Square.
The city of Dubai never ceases to amaze me – as though I am in the midst of a scene from Star Wars. The skyline showcases a medley of futuristic structures towering above the desert terrain. In this marvelous city, it is not out of the ordinary to spot camels relaxing on the beach outside one’s hotel room. The Mall of the Emirates is another must-visit attraction, where you can ski in the morning and savor dinner amidst the desert dunes just beyond the city limits.
Within the Dubai Mall, one can peruse a plethora of high-end designer shops. Across the creek, in the older part of the city, the Gold Souk allows you to adorn yourself in gold from head to toe. This city is a captivating blend of its history and contemporaneity.
Istanbul is the perfect blend of east and west, quite literally! Split by the Bosphorus Strait, it straddles Asia and Europe. The city’s a delightful hodgepodge of ancient religious and historic landmarks, lively bazaars, and ultramodern, secular edifices. I’m a huge fan of Istanbul, and it’s not hard to see why! Its landmarks, people, and cuisine are all absolutely fantastic, making me want to return every opportunity I get!
Nestled on the banks of the Chao Phraya River lies the vibrant city of Bangkok. The city is home to a plethora of intricately designed Temples that house Buddha statues crafted from a wide assortment of materials, each with their unique positions and sizes. Apart from the awe-inspiring temple complexes, you can also visit the picturesque palace complex, verdant parks, lively floating markets, bustling night markets, and so much more.
